In small doses, GHB produces a mild sedative effect, slowed heart and breathing rates, inability to think quickly or logically, physical weakness, and loss of consciousness. Effects kick in about after 10 minutes, and last about 4 hours.

Overdose can occur easily because the dosing is not precise. Overdose symptoms include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, headache, and unconsciousness, loss of physical reflexes, dramatically slowed breathing, and ultimately, death. Taking GHB with alcohol can be deadly.

Repeated use can lead to addiction and tough withdrawal. If someone takes a bit too much at once, GHB can produce seizures, coma, or death.